Watch List notes:

Justinian II, first reign, 685-695. 'Hexagram' (Silver, 22 mm, 4.44 g, 7 h), struck from solidus dies, Constantinopolis, 692-695. [IҺS CRISTЧ]S RЄX RЄGNANT[IЧM] Bust of Christ Pantokrator facing, with cross nimbus, holding book of Gospels in his left hand and raising his right in benediction. Rev. Justinian II standing facing, wearing crown and loros, holding cross potent on globus above step; in field to right, palm. DOC -. MIB 38. SB 1257A (as 'unique'). Of the highest rarity, possibly the second known example. Lightly toned and of fine style. Minor marks and with some areas of weakness, otherwise, good very fine.


This coin, which bears the first numismatic portrayal of Christ, was struck shortly after the Quinisext Council, held in 692 in Constantinople, in which it was decided that Christ could (and should) be depicted in human form.